Introduction
In the realm of pediatric healthcare, addressing the unique needs of children and adolescents with tuberculosis (TB) is crucial. According to the World Health Organization, approximately one-sixth of the 10 million people who develop active TB annually are children or adolescents. However, less than half of these young individuals are diagnosed and treated, with only 36% receiving preventive treatment. The study "Tuberculosis care models for children and adolescents: a scoping review" provides valuable insights into improving TB care for this vulnerable group.
Decentralized Care Models
Decentralized care models focus on providing services at the initial points of patient contact, such as primary-level or community health centers. This approach is particularly effective for children and adolescents who often face barriers in accessing specialized TB clinics. The study highlights that strengthening both diagnostic services and community linkages can significantly improve TB outcomes. Practitioners are encouraged to implement community-based interventions, such as home visits for contact screening and community awareness campaigns, to enhance case detection and treatment success rates.
Integrated Care Approaches
Integrated care involves coordinating services for multiple health conditions, which is vital for children and adolescents who may have overlapping health needs. The study reveals that integrating TB services with maternal, neonatal, and child health clinics can increase TB diagnoses. Practitioners should consider adopting integrated care models that facilitate co-location of TB and HIV treatments, thereby improving access to comprehensive care for young patients.
Family-Centred Care Strategies
Family-centred care addresses the social, psychological, and economic needs of families affected by TB. This approach empowers families by offering choices in treatment and providing support systems. The study demonstrates that socioeconomic support, such as cash transfers and nutritional supplements, enhances treatment adherence and completion rates. Practitioners should strive to implement family-centred interventions that offer holistic support to improve outcomes for children and adolescents with TB.
Encouraging Further Research
While the study provides a comprehensive overview of existing care models, it also identifies gaps in research, particularly in integrated and family-centred care for children and adolescents. Practitioners are encouraged to contribute to further research by exploring innovative care models and sharing their findings. By collaborating with researchers and stakeholders, practitioners can help identify effective strategies that address the unique needs of young TB patients.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Tuberculosis care models for children and adolescents: a scoping review.
